Auto Theft Laws in Florida

Every state has crimes regarding motor vehicle theft. Like most states, Florida makes grand theft auto and most related crimes felonies.

Understanding Motor Vehicle Theft Crimes in Florida

In Florida, theft includes obtaining or using another's property with the intent to deprive the owner of the property permanently or temporarily. Theft can occur through a physical taking of property, as well as by exercising control over property, obtaining property by fraud or false pretenses, or converting property to an unauthorized use.

Because the theft law applies to temporary as well as permanent takings, a person who takes a vehicle for a joyride commits theft just like a person who steals a vehicle outright, intending to keep it. Related theft crimes include stealing car parts, carjacking, operating a chop shop, and breaking into a vehicle. Below are the penalties for all of these motor vehicle theft-related crimes.

Penalties for Grand Theft Auto and Joyriding in Florida

All motor vehicle thefts constitute felonies in Florida. The penalties for grand theft auto—including joyriding—depend on the value of the vehicle and the circumstances involved in the crime.

Third-Degree Felony

Stealing or joyriding in a motor vehicle valued at less than $20,000 constitutes a felony in the third degree. A third-degree felony carries a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine of up to $5,000.

Second-Degree Felony

A person who steals or joyrides in a vehicle valued at $20,000 or more but less than $100,000 commits a felony in the second degree. It's also a second-degree felony to steal or take a car worth $3,000 or more when two or more people are working together to commit the offense.

A person convicted of a felony in the second degree faces a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

First-Degree Felony

It's a first-degree felony to steal or take a vehicle valued at $100,000 or more. Stealing or taking a vehicle and causing more than $1,000 worth of damage to it is also a first-degree felony. Finally, a person commits a felony in the first degree by using a motor vehicle (other than as a getaway vehicle) to commit any grand theft offense.

A person convicted of a felony in the first degree faces a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

(Fla. Stat. §§ 775.082, 775.083, 812.014 (2025).)

Penalties for Stealing Vehicle Parts in Florida

A person who steals vehicle parts will often face felony penalties. Stealing parts worth $750 to $5,000 is a third-degree felony, with penalties of up to five years in prison. Even if the part is not worth $750, a person can face felony charges if the person stole a catalytic converter or caused $1,000 or more worth of damage to the vehicle. Working in concert with others to steal parts worth $3,000 or more is a second-degree felony and carries up to 15 years of prison time.

(Fla. Stat. §§ 775.082, 775.083, 806.13, 812.014, 860.142 (2025).)

Penalties for Operating a Chop Shop in Florida

Any person who owns or operates a chop shop commits a felony in the third degree, punishable by five years in prison. A "chop shop" means any area or building where a person (or persons) alters, dismantles, reassembles, or conceals stolen vehicles or major parts from at least two vehicles.

In addition to imprisonment or fines, an offender must pay restitution to the vehicles' rightful owners or their insurance company (if the losses were covered). All of the stolen vehicles and parts, as well as equipment used in the chop shop (machines, tools, wreckers, car haulers), can be seized and forfeited.

(Fla. Stat. § 812.16 (2025).)

Penalties for Breaking Into a Vehicle in Florida

Anyone who breaks into a vehicle (even if it's unlocked) and intends to commit a crime (like theft or property damage) commits burglary in Florida. So, even if a person unlawfully enters a vehicle and gets scared away, they could face third-degree felony charges and prison time for burglary had they intended to steal the car or anything in it. They could face theft and burglary charges if they complete the intended crime.

(Fla. Stat. § 810.02 (2025).)

Penalties for Carjacking in Florida

Carjacking involves stealing a vehicle from a person by using force or violence or by instilling fear in the victim. Considered a violent felony, carjacking constitutes a first-degree felony. If the offender carries a firearm or deadly weapon during the offense, the penalty is life imprisonment. In all other cases, the offender faces up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

(Fla. Stat. § 812.133 (2025).)

Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Felony Offenses in Florida

Florida's sentencing statutes allow enhanced penalties for habitual (repeat) felony offenders. The enhancement depends on the seriousness of the current offense and the seriousness and number of prior offenses. For instance, a third-time felony offender might face an enhanced sentence that is double what can normally be imposed. Violent felony offenders, which include carjackers, can receive even harsher penalties.

(Fla. Stat. § 775.084 (2025).)

Talk to a Lawyer

If you're facing felony charges for any of the above offenses, speak with a criminal defense lawyer or public defender as soon as possible. An attorney can help you navigate the criminal justice process, protect your rights, and work to obtain the best outcome in your case.